The American curl came about in Lakewood, California in 1981. A stray black female cat with the unusual and intriguing curled ears was taken into the home of the John and Grace Ruga and given the name of Shulamith. Shortly thereafter, Shulamith gave birth to a litter of four kittens, two of which soon displayed the same curled ears. Subsequent litters from Shulamith and from her offspring continued to result in cats with the curled ears. This genetic mutation caught the attention of local cat fancier Nancy Kiester in 1983, who collaborated with Jean Grimm, a Scottish fold breeder, to institute a breeding program to develop the new breed that is known today as the American curl.
The American Curl is a breed that resulted from natural mutation. It received its name from its trademark backward curled furry ears. It either has a short or a long coat. The American curl offers a whimsical look and a sociable demeanor that few can resist. The American curl's popularity took off quickly, becoming recognized by all cat breed associations within a short period of time after the initial discovery and development of the breed. The distinguishing trait of the American curl is the appearance of the ears. The tips of the ears curl backward, and little tufts of fur accentuate the whimsical ears. American curl kittens are born with straight ears, and the curl starts to form a week later. By four months of age, the ears have settled into their permanent curled shape. American curls weigh between 5 and 10 pounds. Their coats may be long or short, displaying any feline color or pattern.
Personality
The American Curl is a very playful, sociable cat that is very kid friendly. It enjoys the company of humans and other cats alike. They don't enjoy being left alone for too long. American curls are affectionate, lovable and easy-going. They get along with children and other pets in the home. In fact, the American curl craves the companionship of human family members or other pets and does not thrive in solitude. American curls are playful and curious. They love to explore their surroundings, and they welcome opportunities to perch on their owner's lap or shoulder.
Breed Characteristics
| Origin: | California, 1980s |
| Life Span: | 12-15 years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
American Curl Build Information
The American Curl is a breed that resulted from natural mutation. It received its name from its trademark backward curled furry ears. It either has a short or a long coat. The American curl offers a whimsical look and a sociable demeanor that few can resist. The American curl's popularity took off quickly, becoming recognized by all cat breed associations within a short period of time after the initial discovery and development of the breed. The distinguishing trait of the American curl is the appearance of the ears. The tips of the ears curl backward, and little tufts of fur accentuate the whimsical ears. American curl kittens are born with straight ears, and the curl starts to form a week later. By four months of age, the ears have settled into their permanent curled shape. American curls weigh between 5 and 10 pounds. Their coats may be long or short, displaying any feline color or pattern.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
The American Curl is a very playful, sociable cat that is very kid friendly. It enjoys the company of humans and other cats alike. They don't enjoy being left alone for too long. American curls are affectionate, lovable and easy-going. They get along with children and other pets in the home. In fact, the American curl craves the companionship of human family members or other pets and does not thrive in solitude. American curls are playful and curious. They love to explore their surroundings, and they welcome opportunities to perch on their owner's lap or shoulder.
| Activity Level: | Moderate |
| Affection Level: | High |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
American curls with short hair require little grooming. Brush the coat once a week to remove dead hairs and maintain a healthy shine. Longer coats require brushing two to three times a week to prevent the hair from getting tangled or matted. All cats should have their teeth brushed at least three times a week to maintain good oral and overall health.
| Grooming: | Minimal (Weekly brushing, nail trimming, ear and tooth cleaning) |
American Curl Common Health Conditions
American curls are hardy cats that live an average lifespan of 15 years. There are currently no known genetic health conditions that are specific to this breed.
American Curl Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
American curl cats originated in the United States. The American curl is playful, inquisitive and highly sociable. American curl cats weigh between 5 and 10 pounds. The American curl requires minimal to moderate grooming. The average lifespan for an American curl is 15 years.